Heading to Lisbon? These are the nine prettiest restaurants to dine at during your upcoming trip.
Kabuki Lisboa
The latitudes of Japanese and Mediterranean gastronomy converge at Kabuki Lisboa. This three-floor haven offers over 10,000 square feet of atmospheres that embody the minimalism and simplicity of Japanese design with the whimsical spirit of Lisbon. On the top floor, guests enjoy lunch in a sun-drenched space overlooking Parque Eduardo VII. Directly below, Kikubari Bar boasts a U-shaped bar evoking the inside of a crystal, complemented by the use of natural materials and asymmetrical light. Dinner is set on the lowest level, a dimly lit room playing off the use of shadows and sobering lines. All eyes are drawn immediately to the eight-seat sushi bar, over which a dynamic mural by Galician artist Carlota Pereiro hangs.
BAHR & Terrace
Take the elevator from the Bairro Alto Hotel lobby up to the roof with a view. The Terrace of BAHR was intended to be the extension of the restaurant, but now, these outdoor tables are highly coveted all year round. Revel in Lisbon’s mild Mediterranean climate in this contemporary open-air space over a plate of brunch and a cocktail in hand.
Rocco
Occupying the ground floor of The Ivens Hotel, Rocco is truly a destination dine unto itself. Inspired by the Amalfi Coast, the 6,000-square-foot space features four distinct areas: Gastrobar, Crudo Bar, Ristorante, and Terrazza. With floral patterns, bright colors, and eclectic detailing across a seductive and theatrical setting, every moment is exquisite. With 123 seats indoors and an additional 56 on the Terrazza, a myriad of guests can enjoy Rocco’s maximalist aesthetic as well as the charm of Italian cucina tipica.
Brilhante
Located in the vibrant Cais do Sodré neighborhood, Restaurant Brilhante captivates visitors with its sophisticated interiors reminiscent of French brasseries. The centerpiece is surely its impressive stone counter with 26 seats, enveloping a central kitchen and gilded floating fume hood. Adorned with noble materials such as dark wood, brass, leather, and velvet, the space exudes an unescapable tribute to sophistication. Lustrous tones of crimson and deep red set the mood for an intimate meal––particularly, Chef Luís Gaspar’s revered Brilhante Steak.
PRADO
Organic, biodynamic, and natural: the three words that embody PRADO. The rotating offerings are crafted with the best ingredients Portugal has to offer, based entirely on seasonality––if it’s not in season, it does not go on the table. Housed in a former fish factory, soaring ceilings provide plenty of natural light. Chic industrial design elements are contrasted with Roman ruins on display.
Black Pavilion
Just a stone’s throw from the hubbub of the city in the Baixa barrio, patrons flock to Black Pavilion to enjoy Michelin-starred Victor Matos’ dishes within the verdant “winter garden”––a cozy dining room with floor-to-ceiling glass doors that give way to an expansive outdoor terrace and panoramic views. The walls and ceiling are clad in the same blue-and-white-striped drapery as the curtains, cocooning the space laden with rattan chairs, potted plants, and black basket-woven light fixtures.
JNcQUOI Avenida
Here, what’s old is new again: modern interior design elements are enhanced by the timeless sophistication of the Tivoli building in which it stands. The menu promises an upscale approach to Portuguese cuisine, and each dish pairs perfectly with the vast array of Portuguese bottles from their wine cellar. Upstairs is the members’ club––lined with velvety sofas, ceramic cheetah sculptures, and a bathroom inspired by Yayoi Kusama, this is the ideal place to spend an evening with friends.
BouBou’s
“Family run” and “fine dining” are often not synonymous, but 2022 Top Chef France winner Chef Louise Bourrat and her family beg to differ. In the heart of the city, BouBou’s exudes the charm of your closest culinary-inclined friend’s patio: whimsical sketches line the walls; greenery abounds; and refined greenery abounds. Each dish from the three different pairing menus is served on artful ceramics inspired by nature’s bounty.
Palácio Chiado
Constructed in the mid-1780s, Palácio Chiado was once where aristocrats danced the nights away. Now, open to all, an evening here is truly unforgettable. All of the palace’s original features have been restored, from the stained glass windows to the ceilings and paintings. Metallic elements, understated furnishings, and tasteful uplighting further elevate the experience.
